Understanding Your Senior Housing Options

When it comes to senior housing, many people are unsure exactly what the term means. While many believe that this type of housing is a nursing home, there are actually several different types of housing available to address the needs of seniors. By understanding all of the options available, you will be able to make an informed decision that will ensure you find the best place for your loved one.

Age-Restricted Communities

These communities are designed specifically for those that are 55 years and older. The communities don’t allow anyone under the designated age to live in the homes, providing seniors with a quiet, peaceful place to live. The homes may be condos, apartments, townhomes, or single family homes, and there is usually a focus on providing amenities that promote an active lifestyle. This option (link to How to Tell if Independent Living is Right for You) is generally for healthy older persons who are still independent, but appreciate the smaller homes and assistance with lawn care, house cleaning, and other chores when needed.

Assisted Living

Assisted living communities provide housing for seniors that are mostly independent, but need some assistance throughout the day. These communities often provide assistance with meals, medications, bathing, dressing, and transportation when needed. Many of these options range from full apartments to single rooms, with each type having emergency systems for added safety. Some assisted living communities provide Alzheimer’s and dementia care as well. This type of facility is also available in subsidized housing , which provides these benefits to low income seniors.

Nursing Homes

This senior housing option (link to Ten Questions to Ask When Choosing a Nursing Home) is for those who don’t require hospital level care, but are unable to take care of themselves. This option is available for both long and short-term rehabilitative stays. These locations have around the clock nursing care and doctors available on staff, and most resemble a hospital in terms of layout and rooms. The rooms in these facilities are available as semi-private or private, and care often includes speech, physical, and occupational therapy to promote strength and improved quality of life.

Special Care Units

These senior housing options are designed around the unique needs of Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. These facilities focus on providing behavioral management and therapy that is instituted to help the residents maintain as much independence as possible. Most of these locations include scheduled activities to help patients remain active and engaged throughout their illnesses.

Convalescent Homes

Convalescent senior housing is designed to provide care for those that need short term care to recover from a serious illness or injury, stroke, or surgery. Patients may remain in these facilities for a matter of days, up to six months, or longer. Care focuses on providing the care and therapy they need to return to independent or assisted living.

There are a number of senior housing options available that are designed to meet the needs of your elderly loved one. Each provides its own benefits, and can help you find the perfect solution for your loved one. You will also be able to adjust these living arrangements as his or her health changes, ensuring proper care for every need.